Canelo Alvarez-Gennady Golovkin Rematch Canceled
The May 5 rematch fight between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Gennady “GGG” Golovkin has been canceled, Canelo and his attorney announced Tuesday.
The cancellation comes after Canelo twice tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol. He blamed the positive tests on contaminated meat from his native Mexico.
Alvarez was temporarily suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission on March 23 and the NSAC filed a formal complaint against him on March 29, casting significant doubt on the fate of the rematch. Alvarez withdrew from the bout because it was unlikely the issue would be resolved in the next four weeks.
"I am truly shocked about what has happened, and for those who have doubts and suspicions about my integrity I have always been and always will be clean fighter," Alvarez said. "I want to apologize to HBO, (sponsors) Tecate and Hennessy and all my other sponsors, the media and to everyone who is involved in the promotion of this event and especially to the fans. I respect this sport. I will always be a clean fighter."
The Nevada State Athletic Commission could suspend Alvarez for ay least one year since it is his first offense. The suspension could be reduced if he cooperates with the commission's investigation.
The fight was supposed to be one of the most anticipated of the year, following the controversial split decision in their September 2017 fight. A shortened suspension could leave the door open for a possible September rematch.
Golovkin is now expected to fight a replacement opponent on May 5 at the T-Mobile Arena.
Alvarez is 49–1–2 with 34 knockouts in his career. Golovkin is 37–0–1 with 33 knockouts.
